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Staley challenges Pakula to face up to Avoca residents

Posted on April 16, 2015

Ripon MP Louise Staley last night in Parliament called upon the Minister for Racing Martin Pakula to visit the Avoca Shire Turf Club to explain the State Government’s decision to scrap the December race meeting, however the Minister refuses to provide a timeline to do so.

Ripon MP Louise Staley last night in Parliament called upon the Minister for Racing Martin Pakula to visit the Avoca Shire Turf Club to explain the State Government’s decision to scrap the December race meeting, however the Minister refuses to provide a timeline to do so.

The Andrews Government earlier this year further showed their contempt for rural voters by axing the December race meeting for the Avoca Shire Turf Club.

In Parliament overnight Ms Staley invited the Racing Minister to come to the Avoca ANZAC day Race meeting and explain to locals in person why the government is slashing the towns racing fixture.

Ms Staley said the people of Avoca deserved answers.

“This is a critical issue for the community of Avoca and the Avoca Shire Turf Club so it is disappointing the Minister has offered no timeline for a visit and has instead told the Club and myself to keep advocating”. Ms Staley said.

“The Andrews Government has been unable to provide any explanation as to why they feel the need to punish the voters of Ripon”.

“Racing Victoria’s is in the process of finalising their annual racing calendar, it is crucial that Martin Pakula now gets involved and saves this crucial race meeting from being snatched away from the people of Avoca”

“The Racing Minister needs to come out of his hiding hole and face up to disappointed Avoca residents and answer their questions in person”